[Indications and results of fusion operations of the upper cervical spine in chronic polyarthritis and psoriatic arthritis].

12 patients suffering from rheumatic or psoriatic instabilities of the upper cervical spine underwent operations by a dorsal approach from September '83 until October '86. They were examined 3 months to 3 years after operation. Different operative procedures were chosen depending upon the extent of the instabilities. Differential indications are discussed on the basis of clinical and x-ray features. Results were good in 10 patients, 1 was satisfactory, 1 patient died one week postoperatively. Rheumatoid and psoriatic instabilities of the upper cervical spine should receive early operative treatment while extent and risks of operative procedures are low.